Geographers

Study the nature and use of areas of the Earth's surface, relating and interpreting interactions of physical and cultural phenomena. Conduct research on physical aspects of a region, including land forms, climates, soils, plants, and animals, and conduct research on the spatial implications of human activities within a given area, including social characteristics, economic activities, and political organization, as well as researching interdependence between regions at scales ranging from local to global.

Tasks Include:

Write and present reports of research findings.
Create and modify maps, graphs, or diagrams, using geographical information software and related equipment, and principles of cartography such as coordinate systems, longitude, latitude, elevation, topography, and map scales.
Gather and compile geographic data from sources including censuses, field observations, satellite imagery, aerial photographs, and existing maps.
Analyze geographic distributions of physical and cultural phenomena on local, regional, continental, or global scales.
Develop, operate, and maintain geographical information (GIS) computer systems, including hardware, software, plotters, digitizers, printers, and video cameras.
Provide consulting services in fields including resource development and management, business location and market area analysis, environmental hazards, regional cultural history, and urban social planning.
Teach geography.
Provide geographical information systems support to the private and public sectors.

The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™ 16.0; US Department of Labor (BLS); Virginia Workforce Connection.

Projections Quick View:

Virginia: +22.9%

National: +35.4%

Education

Master's Degree

Job Zone:

Five: Extensive Preparation Needed

Income Range:

Highest ($50,000 and up)

Average Earnings:

National

$72,890.00

State

$86,300.00

Regional